There is an ongoing Humanitarian Crisis on the US-Mexico border.

Every day, people search for hope at the California-Mexico border. In my time as a volunteer with Al Otro Lado in San Diego, California, I have heard countless stories and witnessed for myself the pain, perseverance, and bravery of the displaced people who come looking for a new life in the United States.

As a longtime runner and aspiring ultramarathoner, I decided to put my miles to work, supporting a cause near and dear to my heart.

Immigration is a fiery, divisive topic at the moment, but no matter how you feel about it, there are human beings suffering needlessly, and we have the power to change it. They are more than statistics: I have held their hands, looked in their eyes, heard their stories. There are individuals I admire with my whole heart who dedicate themselves to caring for and supporting these people around the clock. I do not have that luxury, unfortunately, but I find ways to help when and where I can.

The people who come to the United States for a new life travel hundreds, even thousands of miles to build a life worth living, and the American system doesn’t make it easy. Their intrepid spirits are a testament to the power of the human will.

The non-profit organizations Al Otro Lado and Border Kindness are on the ground each and every day making sure migrants have food, water, shelter, clothing, legal guidance, and other essential resources, but they need money to continue this important work.

At this point in my life, with one half and two full marathons under my shoes, I feel ready to reach for a wild, longtime pipe dream: a 50-mile ultra. Since my marathon journey has been greatly inspired by long-distance runners across the southwest and Central America, it only feels right to use this opportunity to share the love through a sport that has brought me so much joy.

Here, I will share my experience working towards my first 50-mile ultramarathon—the victories, the setbacks, the aches, the pains, and hopefully, the eventual crossing of the finish line. By the time that happens, I hope to have raised $5,000 for Al Otro Lado.

Whether you’re here because you want to learn about ultramarathon training from my experiences (and inevitable mistakes), you’re a supportive family member or friend, or you’re someone who believes humans deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, welcome. I hope we can enjoy the miles together.